A Family Gather 'Round: Our Favorite Thanksgiving Desserts

Thanksgiving is more than just a feast; it's also a time to indulge in some of the most beloved family recipes. In my family, this special day means coming together to cook for our church, and we always invite veterans from the nearby VA hospital to join us. During one of these gatherings, one dessert demanded special attention: my pumpkin praline cheesecake. It became a tradition, and I now prepare four of them well in advance, as it freezes or refrigerates well. Making this dessert allows me to serve those who have served our country and be grateful for their sacrifices.

The Pumpkin Praline Cheesecake

There’s never enough pumpkin praline cheesecake for everyone, so I now make four of them starting four days ahead of the event. This ensures that even those who arrive last still get a taste. Each cheesecake is packed with flavor and has a praline crust that adds a touch of sweetness and crunch. The perfect blend of pumpkin, cream cheese, and a hint of salt makes it a culinary masterpiece that brings everyone to their senses.

The Family Hit: Bourbon Glazed Bread Pudding

While the pumpkin praline cheesecake often takes the spotlight, my personal favorite is the bourbon glazed bread pudding. This dessert takes a few hours to prepare, but the effort is definitely worth it. The combination of moist bread, rich custard, and a warm, sweet bourbon glaze makes it a true crowd-pleaser. Every bite is a delightful mix of textures and flavors, and it's a testament to the art of baking.

Classic Beginnings: Banana Pudding

Banana pudding has been a family favorite for generations, making it the OG dessert. This simple yet comforting pudding is a staple during holidays and gatherings. Made with layers of vanilla wafers, marshmallows, and bananas soaked in a creamy custard, it's a dessert that warms the heart and memories.

Runner-Ups: Pecan Pie and Strawberries Dumplins

While the banana pudding is a favorite, there are other desserts that often vie for attention during the holiday season. Pecan pie is known for its rich and indulgent flavor, but it can be tricky to get just right. In my kitchen, I've had to learn the hard way, as the last time I overcooked the pie, my fiancé almost lost a tooth! On the other hand, strawberries dumplins are a Southern classic that combines leftover chicken dumplings with fresh strawberries. A spoonful of this dessert is a delightful conclusion to a hearty dinner.

Innovation and Tradition

When I ask guests in advance what I should make, lemon meringue pie and trifle are often among the top choices. However, the Mini Mille Feuille is another favorite in my family. Though it requires a bit more work, the combination of puff pastry, vanilla custard, and royal icing makes it a truly breathtaking dessert. Described as one of the best desserts I've ever tasted, it's a perfect way to wow my family and friends.

One of the most unique and innovative desserts in my family is ambrosia, a salad-ish dish made with canned sweetened condensed milk, friendship low-fat yogurt, friendship sour cream, and canned pineapples. While unconventional, it's a hit, and my mom always cooks it to perfection. Inspired by her recipe, I imagined tweaking it with a homemade dulce de leche, a caramel frozen yogurt, and a chunky pineapple reduction. This fusion of flavors promises to be a delightful twist on a classic.

As Thanksgiving approaches, may these recipes and memories bring warmth and joy to your family gatherings. Happy Thanksgiving to all!